This
post is a little late. For some reason I struggled to complete it. This is
probably because I have not done any serious wedding duties recently.
The
major responsibilities have been finalised. The venue, food, entertainment and wedding attire
are secured. There are still many minor responsibilities that require
my attention. Accordingly to the wedding checklists, I should
have the following in order:
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Seven to Six Months Before (Yes, I have six
months before the big day)
|
|
|
1.
Select
and purchase invitations.
|
Done,
they are in the design process currently.
|
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2.
Start
planning a honeymoon.
|
Done!
|
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3.
Shop
for bridesmaids’ dresses.
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Done,
we just need our designer to work her magic.
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4.
Decide
on groomsmen attire.
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Done,
shopping for men is surprisingly easy.
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5. Meet with the officiant.
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I
have, many times, weekly actually.
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6. Send save-the-date cards.
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The
invite will suffice.
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7. Reserve structural and
electrical necessities.
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Working
on it…
|
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8. Book a florist.
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Working
on it…
|
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9. Arrange transportation.
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Each
man for themselves.
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10. Start composing a day-of
timeline.
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I can,
but I’m Indian. Indian folks do not know how to stick to timelines. #IndianTime
#NotAtMyWedding #BeThereEarly
|
My
duties are by no means restricted to this list. I am currently on the look-out
for an ideal wedding cake. I want a
three tier cake that tastes like something from Woolworths and looks like
something from Buddy Valstro’s kitchen. Initially, I wanted a ‘naked’ wedding
cake, in keeping with the modern rustic theme. Naked cakes are sponge cakes
with minimal or no cream/icing. They are decorated with
fresh fruit or flowers. No fondant or marzipan is used. I like naked cakes for
this reason. However, fondant covered cakes have an elegant, polished look with
the option of adding handcrafted embellishments and decorative patterns, while
still being able to enjoy the sponge on the inside. Attention to details and
perfection are close to my heart. Based on this you will probably find a fondant
covered cake at my wedding. I have just learnt that the price tags on the above
beauties are shocking, so do not be surprised if there is no cake at all at my
wedding.
Selecting
garden and reception hall décor is another task waiting to be struck off my
list. We are meeting with a supplier soon and our aim is to achieve an elegant,
modern rustic look, incorporating shades of coral, gold and white. I am excited
about reviewing the possible décor ideas and choosing the most appropriate
pieces for the final look. Our DIY centerpieces have earned the right to appear
on the tables. They look good and are fitting with the theme. They just need a
few candles and flowers as a final touch. I am a strong believer of ‘less is
more’ even when it comes to price tags.
Over
the last few months, I have been constantly reminded about how weddings have
evolved since our parents were married. My father believes that I can
successfully plan a wedding for more than 200 guests for half the price that I am
currently paying for 200 guests. He is not entirely incorrect, which he loves
to hear. However, previously wedding celebrations consisted of food for the
entire neighbourhood and a venue that could fit the entire neighbourhood. Budgets
are now blown on boutique venues, extravagant décor, sky-high wedding cakes,
fancy photo booths, drone photography, celebrity emcees, pyrotechnics and many
more. Business
owners and wedding suppliers know that bridal couples are weak when it comes to
planning their ‘fairytale’ wedding. They thrive on the fact that weddings are a
one-time only event and create the belief that spending copious amounts of
money is justifiable, as a result. It is an ironic situation as business owners
and wedding suppliers claim to make your planning easier, however your wallet
becomes incredibly lighter, which makes your life burdens heavier.
To
prevent a hole from forming in my wallet, I have established a step-by-step plan to
overcome persuasive wedding salesman:
1.
Thoroughly
research and formulate a clear idea of what you want.
2.
Decide
on the maximum amount you will pay for a specific item or service.
3.
If
you find something you like, compare it with other suppliers or similar items.
4.
Select
the best three from the lot. Choose one that best suits your criteria.
5.
If
the chosen item or service is above your budget and you are not willing to
compromise, the budget WILL HAVE TO BE REDUCED on other items or services that
are less significant. (Be Strong!)
Planning
a budget for a wedding is no child’s play. It requires good commutation,
dedication and sacrifice. Similar qualities are required for marriage.
Love
The
Bride-to-be
